Itinerary

Day 1Bangkok

Arrive at any time.

You must arrive on tour with your Vietnamese visa. See the Visa section of the Tour Details for more information and exceptions.

Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting

1h18:00

The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.

Accommodation

Bangkok Centre Hotel (or similar)

Hotel

Day 2Bangkok/Siem Reap

Travel to Siem Reap. Enjoy a delicious Khmer meal at a G Adventures for Good project or with a local family in a village outside of Siem Reap (depends on the departure).

Cross from Thailand into Cambodia, the home base for exploring incredible Angkor Wat. Arrive in time for our included dinner at a Planeterra-project restaurant or with a local family in a village outside of Siem Reap.

Private Vehicle

Bangkok – Aranyaprathet4h-4hMorning

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Border Crossing (Thailand - Cambodia)

Aranyaprathet – Paôy Pêt30m-1h

Get ready to cross into Cambodia. Aranyaprathet is known for being one of the most hectic border crossings but CEOs will help make the process go as smoothly as possible. The border crossing is done on foot and can take up to an hour so be patient and think of all the fun Cambodia has in store.

Private Vehicle

Paôy Pêt – Siem Reap3h-3hAfternoon

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

G Adventures for Good: New Hope Vocational Training Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional meal of Khmer food at the New Hope Vocational Training Restaurant, an initiative kickstarted by G Adventures. Providing skill-building opportunities to marginalized community members, the project also funds the adjacent free community school and health centre. Visit the restaurant run by locals and see how the New Hope project has supported positive change in the community.

Accommodation

Banyan Leaf Hotel (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Dinner

Day 3Siem Reap

Angkor Wat Guided Tour

Angkor Wat

Enjoy a tour of impressive ancient ruins with a local professional guide. Wake early to watch the sun rise over the magnificent Angkor Wat temple. Visit the enigmatic faces of Bayon within the walled city of Angkor Thom, and tour Ta Prohm (aka the "Tomb Raider" temple), which is slowly being swallowed by the jungle.

Big Night Out:

Whether it’s a pub crawl, drink specials or a bonfire on the beach, celebrate late into the night with your new best friends.

Optional Activities - Day 3

Tonle Sap Floating Village

Siem Reap

Tour the floating villages of Tonlé Sap. See what life is like living on a lake — rice planting, pig farming, even attending churches and school, are all done on top of water.

Angkor Museum Visit

Siem Reap

Learn about the story of Angkor and the Khmer empire at the interactive Angkor Museum. Explore the museum’s inspiring galleries and interactive technology, which bring Angkor’s past to life.

Phare - The Cambodian Circus

Siem Reap

Enjoy a stellar performance by Phare, a unique and socially conscious circus that injects Cambodian culture and history into its inspiring shows. See acrobatics, contortion, and aerial arts melded with theatre, modern dance, and more. Take in stories of war, relationships, and discrimination, inspired by the real-life experiences of Phare’s creators and performers.

Accommodation

Banyan Leaf Hotel (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 4Siem Reap/Phnom Penh

Transfer to Cambodia's capital. Orientation walk around Phnom Penh.

Local bus

Siem Reap – Phnom Penh6h-7h

Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

For the bus ride, it is best to have your earplugs ready if you are not a fan of loud Khmer pop music! Also, have a layer available in case the air-conditioning is up too high.

Orientation Walk

30m-1h

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Accommodation

Angkor International Hotel (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 5Phnom Penh

Opt to learn about Cambodia's sombre history with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Prison and the Killing Fields.

Sights you might choose to visit this afternoon include the National Museum and adjacent complex which includes the Silver Pagoda and Royal Palace. To learn about Cambodia's sombre history, visit the Tuol Sleng Prison and the Killing Fields, reminders of the genocide that took place under Pol Pot's reign as leader of the Khmer Rouge.

Phnom Penh can be confusing and we recommend to always keep a hotel card with you when you are exploring.

Carte Blanche

Phnom PenhFull Day

There's plenty to see and do in Phnom Penh, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like visiting the National Museum, going to the Silver Pagoda, and checking out the Royal Palace. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

Optional Activities - Day 5

Tuol Sleng Museum (S-21 Prison) Guided Tour

Phnom Penh

Learn about the dark history and devastation that occurred at Security Prison 21 (S-21); the prison, used by the Khmer Rouge regime, is now Tuol Sleng Museum. Take a guided tour to hear the stories behind the sombre photos lining the museum walls.

Choeung Ek (Killing Fields) Guided Tour

Phnom Penh

Learn more about the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge visiting the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek; the grounds now stand as a powerful memorial filled with victims’ skulls and mass graves. Tour this sombre, yet serene, site with a guide.

Accommodation

Angkor International Hotel (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 6Phnom Penh/Sihanoukville

Swim and relax on the beach after transferring to Sihanoukville.

Private Vehicle

Phnom Penh – Sihanoukville4h-5h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Best to bring earplugs if you like to relax on bus journeys!

Free Time

Sihanoukville14:00-21:00Evening

Rest up for an optional fun night out with the group starting with a barbecue on the beach and then a night out on the town for some dancing.

Accommodation

Nice Beach Hotel (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 7Sihanoukville

Swim and relax by the beach, or take an optional snorkelling boat trip.

Free Time

SihanoukvilleFull Day

Take a look at life under the water with a snorkelling trip or just hang around on the beach.

Optional Activities - Day 7

Snorkelling Boat Trip

Sihanoukville

Come on this snorkel adventure to explore Cambodia’s unique reefs and underwater world. See coral-crested ridges that support a wide range of marine life — you may spot moray eels, sting rays or dolphins. The trip includes a stop on a secluded island beach for a seafood barbecue before heading back to shore.

Accommodation

Nice Beach Hotel (or similar)

Hotel

Day 8Sihanoukville/Cần Thơ

Cross the border to Vietnam. Overnight at a local village homestay.

Cross into Vietnam and stay in a basic village homestay that includes dinner.

Private Vehicle

Sihanoukville – Cần Thơ9h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Home Meal

1h-3h

Enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal served at a local residence – it's a great way to peek into day-to-day regional living.

Border Crossing (Cambodia - Vietnam)

Phnom Den – Tinh Bien

Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Get ready to cross another country off your bucket list.

Accommodation

Can Tho Homestay (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Dinner

Day 9Cần Thơ/Ho Chi Minh City

Check out a floating market from the water before continuing on through the scenic Mekong Delta region to Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy a street food crawl with the group and CEO, opt to take a guided tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels, visit the Ben Thahn market or check out the War Remnants Museum.

This evening, head to one of the rooftop bars such as the Rex Hotel, one of the classic colonial Saigon institutions, where there is often live music.

Floating Market Boat Trip

Cần Thơ

Hop on board a boat and get an up close look at one of the Mekong Delta's floating markets.

Private Vehicle

Cần Thơ – Ho Chi Minh City5h-6hMorning

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Street Food Crawl

30m-2hEvening

Bring your appetite and your wallet. The CEO will bring the group to the best spots to eat and teach everyone about the local street food. Yum!

Accommodation

Hoang Ngan Hotel (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 10Ho Chi Minh City/Nha Trang

Free day to explore. Overnight train to Nha Trang.

During January/February, Tết (the Vietnamese Lunar New Year) sees millions of Vietnamese commute to be with their families and celebrate. While this is a fascinating time to travel through Vietnam, availability of transport may mean that we will replace the overnight train with an overnight bus.

Basic overnight train (beds)

Ho Chi Minh City – Nha Trang10h-11h

Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.

Carte Blanche

Ho Chi Minh CityFull Day

There's plenty to see and do in Ho Chi Minh City, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like visiting the War Remnants Museum, checking out the Reunification Palace, and spending time at Thien Hau Pagoda. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

Optional Activities - Day 10

Cu Chi Tunnels Guided Tour

Củ Chi

Take a guided tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels, a complex network of tunnels that the Viet Cong lived in to protect themselves from opposing forces during the Vietnam War. Try crawling through some of the tunnels (if you’re not claustrophobic). These tunnels stored ammunition, had underground hospitals, and served as a hidden base for attacking allied forces.

Ben Thanh Market

Ho Chi Minh City

Wander this bustling market for more insight into Ho Chi Minh City. Pick up souvenirs, sample local cuisine, and experience local living. Talk to your CEO to learn about the market's origins – Ben Thanh started as a cluster of street vendors selling wares by the Saigon River and formalized into a true market in 1859.

Reunification Palace Visit

Ho Chi Minh City

Wander the historic halls of the Reunification Palace (Independence Palace), a landmark in Ho Chi Minh City. This former home of the South Vietnamese president during the Vietnam War became the location of the end of the war when a North Vietnamese tank pushed through the palace gates on April 30, 1975.

War Remnants Museum Visit

Ho Chi Minh City

Visit the War Remnants Museum, a gut-wrenching but worthwhile experience that includes three storeys of exhibits and military hardware. Learn about the devastation that occurred in Saigon during the Vietnam War, a period that greatly contrasts the joy and liveliness of the Vietnamese people today.

Cholon Visit

Ho Chi Minh City

Take in the busy rhythm of daily life in Cholon, the Chinatown of Ho Chi Minh City. Tour the area full of teahouses, pagodas, and people, and learn a little more about the unique culture within the city.

Ho Chi Minh City Cyclo Tour

Ho Chi Minh City

Take a city tour on a cyclo (cycle rickshaw) – a great way to absorb the sights, sounds, and smells of Ho Chi Minh City. Watch your belongings though – they’re easy for people to grab, if you're not careful.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 11Nha Trang

Arrive in Nha Trang in the morning with plenty of time to explore local shops and markets, relax on the beach or visit nearby historical sites.

Optional activities in Nha Trang include a boat trip to nearby islands for some snorkelling or, perhaps, a fun-filled all-day beach party.

Free Time

Nha TrangFull Day

Spend your free time in this scenic resort town any way you want – go for a spa treatment, cycle around the city or just kick back and relax on a white sand beach.

Optional Activities - Day 11Accommodation

Sai Gon Hotel (or similar)

Hotel

Day 12Nha Trang/Da Nang

Free time in Nha Trang. Overnight train to Hoi An.

In the evening, take an overnight train to Da Nang, then transfer to Hoi An.

During January/February, Tết (the Vietnamese Lunar New Year) sees millions of Vietnamese commute to be with their families and celebrate. While this is a fascinating time to travel through Vietnam, availability of transport may mean that we will replace the overnight train with an overnight bus.

Free Time

Nha Trang

Spend your free time in this seaside resort town any way you want – go for a spa treatment, cycle around the city or just kick back on a white sand beach.

Basic overnight train (beds)

Nha Trang – Da Nang9h-10h

Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.

Optional Activities - Day 12

Snorkelling

Nha Trang

Book a snorkelling day trip near one of the local tropical islands. Grab a snorkel and explore Nha Trang Bay's underwater world.

Boat Tour

Nha Trang

Board a boat in the morning at Nha Trangs harbour for a full day of fun. Begin with a visit to an island fishing village to take in daily life by foot, then take a ride in a basket boat. Afterwards, go for a swim or snorkel. You've surely worked up an appetite, so enjoy a banquet of local dishes and fresh fruit. Relax on the beach for a few hours at the end of the day before heading back to Nha Trang.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 13Da Nang/Hoi An

Enjoy a noodle-making demonstration and local lunch at the G Adventures-supported Oodles of Noodles Project before free time in the afternoon. Go on an evening street food crawl with the group and CEO to get to know more about the delicious local specialties. Opt to take a cooking class, cycle to the beach, visit a tailor, or explore the old town.

From Danang, it is only a short drive to the picturesque port town of Hoi An. Once known as Faifo, it was an important trading town with strong south Chinese influence and connections.

Private Vehicle

Da Nang – Hoi An45m

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

G Adventures for Good: Oodles of Noodles Demonstration and Lunch

Try some of the oodles of noodles (more than 26 types!) available in the city in this tasty cooking class. Run by G Adventures for Good partners, STREETS International, the class was developed exclusively for G Adventures. Former street youth that are part of this hospitality training program, will help you prepare and cook a number of different types of noodles. This program helps these youth practice their English, increasing their skill-set and opportunities available to them in the tourism industry. Enjoy your yummy creations while learning more about the local cuisine and this initiative which empowers street youth through skills and employment training.

Street Food Crawl

Bring your appetite and your wallet. The CEO will bring the group to the best spots to eat and teach everyone about the local street food. Yum!

Free Time

Hoi AnAfternoon

Get out and explore this beautiful city.

Optional Activities - Day 13

Cua Dai Beach

Play in the surf at Cua Dai beach about 4km (2.5 mi) away from the Old Town. Make your own picnic of local food and rest under one of the palm trees lining the shore.

Tailor Shops

Hoi An

Go home with some new (handmade!) clothes from one of Hoi An’s famous tailor shops. Walk the streets lined with hundreds of local shops that turn out gorgeous suits, dresses, winter coats, shoes, purses – almost anything – in a day's time to create next season's wardrobe.

Accommodation

Bach Dang Hotel (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Lunch

Day 14Hoi An

Enjoy free time; opt to take a cooking class, cycle to the beach, visit a tailor, or explore the old town.

Carte Blanche

Hoi AnFull Day

There's plenty to see and do in Hoi An, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like learning about Vietnamese cuisine with a cooking class, trying your hand at making traditional lanterns, and visiting the ruins of My Son. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

Optional Activities - Day 14

Hoi An Cooking Class

Hoi An

Take a cooking class to learn more about Vietnamese food and its distinct flavours. Tour the local market to buy fresh ingredients before preparing some popular regional dishes. Enjoy your creations when you're done!

Hoi An Bike and Boat Tour

Hoi An

Enjoy a peaceful exploration of the villages around Hoi An, cycling through rice paddies and along narrow country lanes. Take advantage of this tour – it includes a boat trip through the water palm forest and a visit to the farming village of Tra Que.

Hoi An Walking Tour

Hoi An

Stroll through the narrow winding streets of Hoi An’s Old Town to see the Chinese assembly halls, ancestral homes, the Japanese covered bridge, and well-preserved pagodas. Opt to stop for lunch to sample delicious local delicacies and fusion food at one of the restaurants for which Hoi An is becoming famous.

Cua Dai Beach

Play in the surf at Cua Dai beach about 4km (2.5 mi) away from the Old Town. Make your own picnic of local food and rest under one of the palm trees lining the shore.

Tailor Shops

Hoi An

Go home with some new (handmade!) clothes from one of Hoi An’s famous tailor shops. Walk the streets lined with hundreds of local shops that turn out gorgeous suits, dresses, winter coats, shoes, purses – almost anything – in a day's time to create next season's wardrobe.

Accommodation

Bach Dang Hotel (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 15Hoi An/Huế

Continue the journey north to the city of Hue. Opt to visit the Royal Citadel and tombs, take a Perfume River cruise or tour the countryside by motorbike.

Private Vehicle

Hoi An – Huế4h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time

HuếAfternoon

Enjoy your free time in Hue any way you want. Shop, eat, wander or relax - whatever suits your fancy.

Optional Activities - Day 15

Imperial Citadel Tour

Huế

Tour this one-time capital city and UNESCO World Heritage site. See the walled fortress and former palace, which has many palaces, gateways, courtyards, and gardens to explore. The Forbidden Purple City (modelled on China's Forbidden City) inside the citadel was once home to the imperial family and was significantly damaged during the Vietnam War.

Tien Mu Pagoda Visit

Huế

Visit Tien Mu, one of the tallest and, perhaps, most elegant pagodas in Vietnam, at seven storeys high. Take a step back in time touring this historic temple - built more than 400 years ago along the north shore of the Perfume River, it has been the site of many political protests.

Hue City Tour

Take a tour of this imperial city to see the Thiên Mụ Buddhist pagoda, the tallest religious building in the country, the Japanese bridge, and the tombs of the emperors. Visit the Dong Ba Markets for local specialties such as banh khoai (savoury pancakes) and banh bot loc boc tom thit (thin rice paper filled with meat and shrimp).

Perfume River Cruise

Huế

Enjoy this scenic cruise down the Perfume River. Shoot some memorable photographs and, perhaps, enjoy a nice cool breeze off the water.

Accommodation

DMZ Hotel (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 16Huế/Hanoi

Free time in Hue. Overnight train to Hanoi.

Free Time

HuếFull Day

Enjoy your free time in Hue any way you want. Shop, eat, wander or rest - whatever suits your fancy.

Basic overnight train (beds)

Huế – Hanoi14h

Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.

Optional Activities - Day 16

Hue City Tour

Take a tour of this imperial city to see the Thiên Mụ Buddhist pagoda, the tallest religious building in the country, the Japanese bridge, and the tombs of the emperors. Visit the Dong Ba Markets for local specialties such as banh khoai (savoury pancakes) and banh bot loc boc tom thit (thin rice paper filled with meat and shrimp).

Perfume River Cruise

Huế

Enjoy this scenic cruise down the Perfume River. Shoot some memorable photographs and, perhaps, enjoy a nice cool breeze off the water.

Cycling

Huế

Take to two wheels to see a true highlight of Hue – the countryside. See rural Vietnam, its villages, and cottage industries too.

Imperial Citadel Tour

Huế

Tour this one-time capital city and UNESCO World Heritage site. See the walled fortress and former palace, which has many palaces, gateways, courtyards, and gardens to explore. The Forbidden Purple City (modelled on China's Forbidden City) inside the citadel was once home to the imperial family and was significantly damaged during the Vietnam War.

Tien Mu Pagoda Visit

Huế

Visit Tien Mu, one of the tallest and, perhaps, most elegant pagodas in Vietnam, at seven storeys high. Take a step back in time touring this historic temple - built more than 400 years ago along the north shore of the Perfume River, it has been the site of many political protests.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 17Hanoi/Ha Long

Visit Halong Bay for a seafood lunch cruise and cave visit.

Arrive early morning to bustling Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. Transfer to a private bus and head to the beautiful and famous Halong Bay.

Private Vehicle

Hanoi – Ha Long4h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Hạ Long Bay Junk Boat Trip

Ha Long Bay

Come aboard a sailing junk to cruise past thousands of limestone islands and karsts that rise from the waters of Halong Bay. See the intricate caves and beauty of the islands up close. Enjoy a seafood lunch and a visit to one of the island’s caves before transferring to the mainland for our overnight stay.

On rare occasion Halong Bay is closed to tourist vessels by the government authorities due to extreme weather conditions. Should this occur, an alternate activity will be provided.

Accommodation

Halong Hotel (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Lunch

Day 18Ha Long/Hanoi

Get to know Hanoi with an orientation walk through the Old Quarter. Opt to see Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Hoa Lo Prison, or shop in the Old Quarter.

Private Vehicle

Ha Long – Hanoi4h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Old Quarter Orientation Walk

Hanoi

Take an orientation walk through Hanoi's Old Quarter, a maze of streets, each one traditionally devoted to a different product or industry. Each street is named after the trade practiced on that street for several generations; it's an interesting glimpse into the life of a Hanoian in one of the oldest parts of town. Need a rest? Stop at Bia Hoi corner and pull up a plastic stool. Drink the local brew with the locals and make new friends.

Free Time

HanoiAfternoon

Enjoy free time in the afternoon to wander through the city.

Optional Activities - Day 18

Tran Quoc Pagoda Visit

Hanoi

Visit one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam located on the eastern shore of Tay Ho. Learn about Tran Quoc's history from the 17th-century stela found on site. View it later in the day, if you can – the tall structure is striking against the setting sun.

Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu) Visit

Hanoi

Visit this sprawling temple built to honour Confucius, sages, and scholars. Dedicated to learning, it housed the country’s first university in 1076. Explore its five courtyards, containing various gates, altars, sanctuaries, shrines, the stelae of doctors, and the Well of Heavenly Clarity.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum Visit

Hanoi

Tour the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum built in the square where Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence in 1945. Get in line to tour the grounds; queues of visitors come to pay their respects daily.

Hoan Kiem Lake Walk

Hanoi

Take a break from city strolling and wander down by Hoan Kiem Lake. Walk along the water’s vibrant shoreline for some prime people watching. See if you can spot one of the famous 100-year-old turtles, which may still live in the popular lake.

Thăng Long Water Puppet Theatre Performance

Hanoi

Watch a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show with beautiful live music and intricate puppets dancing in a water stage.

Accommodation

Hong Ngoc Tonkin (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 19Hanoi

Spend time exploring Hanoi. Included street food crawl.

Free Time

HanoiFull Day

Get out and explore Hanoi.

Street Food Crawl

30m-2h

Bring your appetite and your wallet. The CEO will bring the group to the best spots to eat and teach everyone about the local street food. Yum!

Optional Activities - Day 19

Tran Quoc Pagoda Visit

Hanoi

Visit one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam located on the eastern shore of Tay Ho. Learn about Tran Quoc's history from the 17th-century stela found on site. View it later in the day, if you can – the tall structure is striking against the setting sun.

Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu) Visit

Hanoi

Visit this sprawling temple built to honour Confucius, sages, and scholars. Dedicated to learning, it housed the country’s first university in 1076. Explore its five courtyards, containing various gates, altars, sanctuaries, shrines, the stelae of doctors, and the Well of Heavenly Clarity.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum Visit

Hanoi

Tour the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum built in the square where Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence in 1945. Get in line to tour the grounds; queues of visitors come to pay their respects daily.

Hoan Kiem Lake Walk

Hanoi

Take a break from city strolling and wander down by Hoan Kiem Lake. Walk along the water’s vibrant shoreline for some prime people watching. See if you can spot one of the famous 100-year-old turtles, which may still live in the popular lake.

Thăng Long Water Puppet Theatre Performance

Hanoi

Watch a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show with beautiful live music and intricate puppets dancing in a water stage.

Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos

You may be a seasoned pro at group travel by now, but there will likely be some new travellers joining the group. Sit in on the welcome meeting to meet the newest members of your group and learn about the next leg of your tour.

Accommodation

Hong Ngoc Tonkin (or similar)

Hotel

Day 20Hanoi/Vientiane

A short flight brings the group to the capital city of Laos. Opt to visit temples, see the golden stupa of That Luang, or scour the markets.

Explore a bit of Hanoi in the morning before an afternoon flight to Vientiane, the capital of Laos. There is a wealth of cultural delights to discover - on foot, by bicycle or, for the less energetic, by tuk-tuk.

Visit Laos' most important national monument, Phat That Luang, or meander down the dusty riverside tracks to find villages full of friendly children, dogs and chickens. A visit to Vientiane's vibrant, colourful morning market (which incidentally is open all day!) is worthwhile, to find plenty of local treasures. A great way to round off the day is to enjoy a spectacular sunset over the Mekong.

Free Time

HanoiMorning

Explore Hanoi on foot, by bicycle or by tuk-tuk.

Plane

Noi Bai International Airport – Wattay International Airport1h15m

Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

Free Time

VientianeAfternoon

Set out and explore the capital of Laos.

Optional Activities - Day 20

Wat Pha That Luang Visit

Vientiane

See Laos’s national symbol and most important sacred monument, Pha That Luang (Great Stupa), completely covered in gold leaf. Every November, devoted Buddhists come here to celebrate Vientiane’s most important festival, Bun That Luang, with parades, music and religious ceremonies.

Accommodation

Vientiane SP (or similar)

Meals included:

Day 21Vientiane/Vang Vieng

A picturesque drive north takes us to beautiful Vang Vieng. This quiet town is set along the Nam Song river amidst rice fields and limestone karsts.

Private Vehicle

Vientiane – Vang Vieng3h-4h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time

Vang ViengAfternoon

Set off and explore the beautiful Vang Vieng area, or relax to your heart's content.

Optional Activities - Day 21

Hiking

Vang Vieng

Set off along the banks of the river to explore nearby caves, countryside and meet local villagers to find out more about their way of life.

Cycling

Vang Vieng

Rent a bike and explore the countryside.

Swimming

Vang Vieng

Head to the river for a dip. There are also tube rentals available in the area if you'd rather spend some time floating around.

Caving

Vang Vieng

Explore some of the many caves in the area. Some have lagoons for tubing in the dark or smooth terrain perfect for walking through. Ask your CEO for recommendations on which cave to visit for the best time.

Accommodation

Vilayvong Guesthouse (or similar)

Guesthouse

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 22Vang Vieng

Free time to explore Vang Vieng. Opt to explore some of the caves by bicycle or take an invigorating walk.

Why not explore some of the caves by bicycle or take an invigorating walk. In the evening, soak in the natural beauty of Vang Vieng as the sun sets over the river.

Free Time

Vang ViengFull Day

Set off and explore the beautiful Vang Vieng area, or relax to your heart's content.

Optional Activities - Day 22

Hiking

Vang Vieng

Set off along the banks of the river to explore nearby caves, countryside and meet local villagers to find out more about their way of life.

Cycling

Vang Vieng

Rent a bike and explore the countryside.

Caving

Vang Vieng

Explore some of the many caves in the area. Some have lagoons for tubing in the dark or smooth terrain perfect for walking through. Ask your CEO for recommendations on which cave to visit for the best time.

Swimming

Vang Vieng

Head to the river for a dip. There are also tube rentals available in the area if you'd rather spend some time floating around.

Accommodation

Vilayvong Guesthouse (or similar)

Guesthouse

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 23Vang Vieng/Luang Prabang

This morning travel from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang. Get your bearings with a CEO-led orientation walk.

Private Vehicle

Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang7h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Orientation Walk

30m-1h

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Accommodation

Treasure Hotel (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 24Luang Prabang

Witness the giving of alms to the Buddhist monks and visit the night market. Opt to take a cooking class, visit temples or cool off at Kuang Si Waterfalls.

Traditional Laotian culture is to give daily alms to monks. Monks are only allowed to eat food which has been donated to them before noon. On one of your mornings here, you may decide to rise with the sun, and watch one of the most important religious ceremonies in Laos. This is simply an unforgettable Southeast Asian experience.

Carte Blanche

Luang PrabangFull Day

There's plenty to see and do in Luang Prabang, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like learning about Laotian cuisine with a cooking class, getting a massage, and cycling around town. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

Optional Activities - Day 24

Cooking Class

Luang Prabang

Enjoy the sights and smells of fresh produce, local spices and exotic ingredients and learn the secrets of Laotian cuisine.

Kuang Si Waterfalls Excursion

Kuang Si Falls

Journey to this magnificent multi-level waterfall, where relaxing is highly recommended. Explore the multiple picture-perfect pools as well as the nearby Asiatic black bear rescue centre (located between the park entrance and waterfall).

Phousi Temple Visit

Luang Prabang

Climb more than 300 steps to the top of Mount Phou Si for a panoramic view of the sunset over Luang Prabang. Ornate Buddhist shrines dot the pathway up and the glistening seven-tiered golden pagoda of Wat Chom Si awaits at the summit.

Royal Palace Museum Visit

Luang Prabang

The ornate rooms of this royal palace-turned-museum house the country’s crown jewels, many religious artifacts, and a 50kg (110 lb) Buddha, cast of gold, silver and bronze. Gifts from visiting heads of state are on display, as are the beautiful silk screens crafted by the Queen.

Wat Xien Thong Visit

Luang Prabang

Once a royal temple where Kings were crowned, the importance of this 16th-century Buddhist temple as a religious monastery is not lost on visitors. Wat Xieng Thong stands resplendent among shrines, pavilions, chapels, towers and gardens, and its gilded wooden doors, mosaics, and ceiling displays are representative of typical Laos art and craft.

Wat Visoun Temples Visit

Luang Prabang

Originally built in 1513 and still operational, Wat Visoun is Luang Prabang’s oldest temple. Over the years invaders stole many of its priceless Buddha images, but this temple still offers some unusual architecture like the domed lotus flower stupa, designed by a royal and affectionately called "The Watermelon Stupa."

Accommodation

Treasure Hotel (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 25Luang Prabang/Pak Beng

Cruise the Mekong on a long houseboat before arriving at a village homestay for the night.

We board our boat for the two-day journey up the mighty Mekong River making our way to Chiang Khong.

Mekong River Slow Boat

Luang Prabang – Muang Pakbèng8h-10h

Enjoy the ride down the Mekong River on our private boat (it’s pretty comfortable and spacious, and there’s a toilet on board). Have some fruit, tea, and coffee (free of charge); water and soft drinks are available for purchase.

Local Living: Mekong River Homestay

Overnight in a basic village homestay along the Mekong River to get a glimpse into rural daily life. Enjoy a simple but tasty home-cooked dinner that consists of typical Laotian cuisine. Your local guide will take time to explain the local life of the people in this village. You have the option of swimming in the Mekong.

Accommodation

Homestay Pakbeng (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Dinner

Day 26Pak Beng/Chiang Khong

Mekong River travel day. Cross into Thailand.

This morning we re-board our boat and continue our leisurely cruise along the river before arriving at the Laos/Thai border and crossing to Chiang Khong in the late afternoon.

Mekong River Slow Boat

Muang Pakbèng – Ban Houayxay8h-10h

Enjoy the ride down the Mekong on our private boat (it’s pretty comfortable and spacious, and there’s a toilet on board). Have some fruit, tea, and coffee (free of charge); water and soft drinks are available for purchase.

Border Crossing (Laos - Thailand)

Ban Houayxay – Chiang Khong

Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

Accommodation

Nam Khong Guesthouse (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch

Day 27Chiang Khong/Chiang Mai

Drive to Chiang Mai. Opt to visit Doi Suthep temple, catch a Thai boxing match or grab a bargain at the famous night market.

Departing Chiang Khong after breakfast, we drive to Chiang Mai where you have the afternoon free to explore this fascinating city, once the capital of the Kingdom of Lan.

Private Vehicle

Chiang Khong – Chiang Mai6h-7h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time

Chiang MaiAfternoon

Get out and explore this bustling city in northern Thailand.

Optional Activities - Day 27

Muay Thai Fight

Chiang Mai

Watch a round of Muay Thai -- it's a sport unique to Thailand that’s gaining popularity around the world. Muay Thai has many of the same principles as kickboxing. Learn more about this engrossing sport with a visit to a match -- don't worry, you're not expected to pick up your gloves and fight.

Doi Suthep Temple Visit

Doi Suthep

Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a golden Buddhist temple outside of Chiang Mai on the Mt Doi Suthep. Climb 300 steps to reach the temple and be rewarded with an unforgettable view. Admire the many Buddhist relics at this sacred temple and visit the white elephant shrine. Legend has it that the location of the temple was chosen after a white elephant carried a relic to the mountain and trumpeted three times before dying on the spot. Also, with a little luck, you may witness the chanting of the monks.

Night Market

Chiang Mai

Pick up a a souvenir at this shopper's paradise. Wander through the market to find music, food, and local artists selling handmade crafts.

Massage (Southeast Asia)

Lay back and soothe aching muscles with a famous local massage. Affordable and amazing, don't miss out.

Northern Thai Cooking Class

Chiang Mai

Channel your inner chef with a home-style Thai cooking class. Take a trip to the market with your teacher and learn about regional flavours as you pick out fresh ingredients. Head back to the cozy kitchen for a hands-on lesson in whipping up delicious local favourites like hot and sour soup, green curry, and sticky rice.

Accommodation

Chiang Mai Gate Hotel (or similar)

Hotel

Day 28Chiang Mai/Bangkok

Free time in Chiang Mai. Overnight train to Bangkok.

Today, why not try your hand at local cuisine with a Thai cooking class? Other options include a visit the magnificent temple of Doi Suthep standing watch over the city from the hills above, taking a bicycle ride in the countryside or embracing the bizarre by getting a massage from the training school at the local woman's prison! Tonight we catch an overnight train to Bangkok.

Basic overnight train (beds)

Chiang Mai – Bangkok

Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.

Note: Due to disruptions of Thai trains in the north during the monsoon season, trips running July through October may use alternative transport.

Carte Blanche

Chiang MaiFull Day

There's plenty to see and do in Chiang Mai, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like ziplining, checking out the Mae Sa Waterfall, and learning about Thai cuisine with a cooking class. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

Optional Activities - Day 28

Massage (Southeast Asia)

Lay back and soothe aching muscles with a famous local massage. Affordable and amazing, don't miss out.

Cooking Class

Chiang Mai

Pick out the best ingredients at a local market and learn how to make delicious Thai dishes.

Doi Suthep Temple Visit

Doi Suthep

Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a golden Buddhist temple outside of Chiang Mai on the Mt Doi Suthep. Climb 300 steps to reach the temple and be rewarded with an unforgettable view. Admire the many Buddhist relics at this sacred temple and visit the white elephant shrine. Legend has it that the location of the temple was chosen after a white elephant carried a relic to the mountain and trumpeted three times before dying on the spot. Also, with a little luck, you may witness the chanting of the monks.

Chiang Mai Cycling Tour

Chiang Mai

Meander through the old city of Chiang Mai on bike.

Flight of the Gibbon

Chiang Mai

Soar across 7km (4.3 mi) of Thai jungle on a zipline and learn about the local lore, wildlife, and geology from an expert guide. (Not at the same time, of course. That’d be kinda complicated.)

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 29Bangkok

Opt to visit Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, buy any last minute souvenirs or relax with a Thai massage.

We'll arrive early in the morning to Bangkok, Thailand's capital city. The day is free to explore the many sights of Bangkok. The Grand Palace, Wat Pho, National Museum, and Jim Thompson's House are just a few suggestions. A trip along the Chao Praya river and through the canals (or klongs) gives you a different perspective of daily life in this busy city.

In the evening, we'll say good bye and enjoy a Thai meal and perhaps a beer together to celebrate the end of an amazing journey.

Free Time

Bangkok

Bangkok has so much to offer its visitors. Get out and explore!

Optional Activities - Day 29

Grand Palace Visit

Bangkok

Visit the King’s official residence (made up of many buildings, halls, lawns, gardens, and courtyards) on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. See the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Phra Maha Monthien Buildings.

Wat Po Visit

Bangkok

This temple is known for its reclining Buddha, its feet covered with mother-of-pearl engravings of Buddhist symbols. Explore the large grounds and other compounds to see other Buddha figures, murals and the chedis that contain the ashes of Buddha. This is also the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.

Klong Riverboat Tour

Bangkok

Travel by longtail boat on the busy Chao Phraya River. Go through the smaller klongs (canals) to see skyscrapers, temples, and shops in the distance, and the densely populated waterfront settlements up close.

National Museum Visit

Bangkok

See Thai artifacts on display from the Dvaravati, Srivijaya, Sukhothai and Ayutthaya periods as well as other Southeast Asian collections.

Jim Thompson's House Visit

Bangkok

Tour the Jim Thompson House, a Bangkok museum that was once the home of American businessman Jim Thompson, the “Legendary American of Thailand.” See his collection of Buddhist and secular art, amassed while building his silk company.

Accommodation

The Bangkokians City Garden Home - multi share (or similar)

Guesthouse

Day 30Bangkok

Depart at any time.

Departure Day

Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

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